awaiting commands

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "awaiting commands" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone or something is in a state of readiness to receive instructions or orders. Example: "The robot is currently awaiting commands from the operator to begin its tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Priced $179.99, it sits in your home, plugged into the wall, awaiting commands.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

One of three poised for action, it lurks in the gloom, awaiting a command – robots, after all, don't need the lights on.

The Guardian - Books

When a vulnerable machine is discovered, it is infected with malware that lies there undetected, awaiting the command to start pinging the site that has been chosen for an attack.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rainilaiarivony successfully maintained authority over the palace guards anxiously awaiting the command from either faction to slaughter the other.

Wikipedia

You are reaching inward and unfurling the red carpet for your waltz, and not the flapping tongue as much as the King Solomon variety floating gently out into your new reality, awaiting your command.

Vice

The car's head unit (the in-car touch screen tablet) awaits your command.

TechCrunch

"Mappers" have supplied the network blueprints for the target computers; "crackers" have deciphered passwords and breached operating systems; telecommunications have been compromised; and vans, ferrying men with HERF (high energy radio frequency) guns, which are harmless to people, but fry the innards of computers, await the command to fire.

Forbes

"Shiiba Linu" features another dog in a field of dense yellow-green grass; it sits between a beautifully painted electric keyboard and a kitten's mangled carcass, as if awaiting its next command.

The New York Times - Arts

Suspended in the lab and awaiting its controller's digital commands, it is also missing the shoulder joint necessary for that motion.

The New York Times - Science

The really clever thing here being that if you manage to snag a relatively experienced pawn, he or she might have already completed some of the quests awaiting you while at the command of another player and so will advise during such quests – pointing out secrets and new paths for example when the time comes for you to take the plunge.

Independent

Meanwhile, Major Margaret Houlihan (Loretta Swit) and Major Frank Burns Larry Linvillee) are eagerly awaiting the upcoming transfer of command of the 4077th MASH: upon Blake's departure, Burns will become the unit commander.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "awaiting commands" when you want to emphasize a state of readiness or expectation for instructions, particularly in contexts involving technology or formal systems. For instance, "The drone is awaiting commands from the control center."

Common error

Avoid using "awaiting commands" in casual conversation; it's typically too formal. Opt for phrases like "waiting for instructions" or "ready when you are" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "awaiting commands" primarily functions as a present participle phrase, often used to describe the state of a system, device, or individual that is ready and prepared to receive and execute instructions. Ludwig's examples show how it's often associated with technology, military, or formal settings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "awaiting commands" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a state of readiness for instructions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for describing devices, systems, or even people poised to take action. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, implying a neutral to professional register. When writing, it's best used in formal settings, keeping in mind more casual alternatives exist for everyday use. "Awaiting commands" is a useful phrase for conveying readiness and anticipation in a structured environment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

awaiting instructions

A more general term for waiting for any type of guidance or direction.

standing by for orders

Emphasizes readiness and immediate availability to execute instructions.

ready to receive orders

Highlights the preparedness to accept and act upon instructions.

on standby

Indicates a state of operational readiness and availability.

poised for action

Suggests a state of readiness and eagerness to begin an activity once directed.

at the ready

Highlights immediate accessibility and preparedness.

waiting for a signal

Implies that action is contingent upon a specific cue or prompt.

in a holding pattern

Describes a temporary state of inactivity while awaiting further direction.

in a queue

Expresses the idea of awaiting in a sequential order

under advisement

Suggests that a matter is being considered and a decision is pending.

FAQs

How to use "awaiting commands" in a sentence?

"Awaiting commands" is used to describe a state of readiness to receive instructions. For example, "The system is currently "awaiting commands" from the user to initiate the process".

What can I say instead of "awaiting commands"?

You can use alternatives such as "awaiting instructions", "standing by for orders", or "ready to receive orders" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "awaiting commands" or "waiting for commands"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "awaiting commands" is more formal. "Waiting for commands" is more commonly used in everyday language.

What's the difference between "awaiting commands" and "awaiting instructions"?

While both imply waiting, "awaiting commands" often suggests a more immediate and direct action is expected, typically in a technological or structured environment. "Awaiting instructions" is broader and can refer to any type of guidance.